Dales Countryside Museum volunteers generously give up their time to help maintain, improve and run Dales Countryside Museum (DCM). Along with our staff and the Friends of DCM, the volunteers are a key part of making the Museum a successful visitor attraction and a record of life in the Yorkshire Dales.
As well as being vital to the Museum, volunteering is very interesting and great fun. Volunteers get to know a wide range of different people who share an interest in the Museum and the history of the Yorkshire Dales.
The following examples are ways in which volunteers regularly help at the Museum:
Events
Many of our events simply couldn't run without the help of volunteers. You can see the wide range of events that are held at DCM on their website at www.dalescountrysidemuseum.org.uk/whats-on/events.
Managing the collection
Volunteers help look after the collection, keeping items clean and making sure they're labelled as clearly and accurately as possible. They also photograph and record new items when they are brought into the Museum.
Research room
Volunteers can help with enquiries in the research room. Local residents often come to the Museum to make use of our collection and research materials, and volunteers are invaluable in helping them find the information they want as quickly as possible.
Family history
The family history volunteers meet every Monday and Wednesday. They're committed to helping local people uncover their ancestors' secrets.
The Museum garden
The Museum has its own garden run by dedicated volunteers. Come along and help us look after the plants!
Young Archaeologists Club
Young Archaeologists Club is for young people up to the age of 17 who are interested in archaeology. It is a great way for young people to investigate their local heritage and tremendous fun for both volunteer leaders and members.
Could you help?
If you have time to spare and skills (specialist or non-specialist!) that you’d be prepared to use in the Museum, we would love to hear from you. Please contact us at DCM to let us know how you might be able to get involved. You might also be interested in the work of the Friends of DCM.
